California - Consolidated "San Diego Hotel Recommendations" thread

If anyone has any suggestions for a hotel or restaurant in the Gaslamp area, I would appreciate it. Thanks.

restaurants, a number are posted

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The Hilton Gaslamp Quarter is right there - the Grand Hyatt Manchester is nearby as well.

If you'll have a car, I'd like to make a suggestion. In National City, you are 10 minutes by car from Gas Light district. There is a Holiday Inn off Exit 8 on the 5. Usually $80 or so a night, great view of Bay and Naval Base, big rooms with Fridge and Microwave. 24 Hr convenience store across the street. I'm there 3 - 4 times a year from out east. Not the fanciest, but the best value for the money by far.

If anyone has any suggestions for a hotel or restaurant in this part of San Diego, I would appreciate it. Thanks.



It depends on your budget. The Hilton, Westin, W, and Sheraton will set you back a pretty penny. A mid-range hotel is the Courtyard by Marriott. It's within a few blocks of the Gaslamp, and I, a single female, feel fine about walking in that area.

You can get cheaper with things like Ramada and Villager, but I don't recommend it. They are GROSS!

My advice would be to check out the Courtyard. It is a nice and historical hotel that won't break your bank.

As far as restaurants go, just ask at the hotel. They don't usually stear you wrong. And they're a dime a dozen in the Gaslamp.

I stayed at this hotel in 2003. Although it is old and needs to be updated, I found it to be just fine. Staff was wonderful, location fine.

Gourmet Mag’s (Oct 04) “Big Deal / Good Deal” restaurants in San Diego

Big Deal = Gourmet, Elegant food
Good Deal = “cheap” local’s spots

Big Deal Restaurants:

George's at the Cove
1250 Prospect Street
858.454.4244

Parallel 33
741 West Washington Street
619.260.0033

Good Deal Restaurants:

Region
3671 Fifth Avenue
619.299.6499

Cafe Cerise
1125 Sixth Avenue
619.595.0153

George's at the Cove is indeed excellent, but it is in La Jolla. There are actually two restaurants there. The cafe is a good deal costwise, the main restaurant is very expensive.

This isn't a restaurant, but Extraordinary Desserts in Hillcrest is amazing. It'll cost about $8 for a slice of cake, but it's definitely worth trying. The lines are usually about an hour or so on weekend nights, though. It's close to Balboa park on fifth avenue, and probably a 10 minute drive from the gaslamp.

http://www.sandiegorestaurants.com/details.cfm?res_id=62

I've never been to San Diego but am going to make a cursory visit to scout out hotels and the area for my 2006 client conference in the fall. I'd appreciate an overview of locations that are "must be's" as well as some ideas on which hotels are good. I like the name brand hotels (Starwood, Marriott, Hyatt, and so on) because of their reputation and organization for conferences. I will have about 80 attendees over four nights and many of them are women.

I'd appreciate any insight, suggestion or information you could provide.

Just thinking out loud to start the discussion - do you contemplate evening activities (dinenrs/receptions/meetings) that will be "required" events for the delegates?

If evenings are to be free, I'd think that hotels in the downtown/Gaslamp area might be a better starting point.

If it's to be more of a "destination" setting, I'd say take a close look at the Hilton Torrey Pines and the Hyatt Aventine (non-coasdtal area of La Jolla). I was at a conference at the Hilton (when it was still flagged as a Sheraton) and had a great time.

I'd only think about Mission Valley / Hotel Circle properties if delegates will be renting cars.

The Gaslamp area is what others have told me would work for my event. We will have some receptions, but they will end early enough that attendees will have plenty of time to go out and have some fun.

What are some good properties in the downtown / Gaslamp area, and any other comments on San Diego for someone who knows very little about the place?

The Gaslamp area is what others have told me would work for my event. We will have some receptions, but they will end early enough that attendees will have plenty of time to go out and have some fun.

What are some good properties in the downtown / Gaslamp area, and any other comments on San Diego for someone who knows very little about the place?

The Westin in Horton Plaza is probably the most convenient for this part of town. It is directly adjacent to the Gaslamp District. By the way, if you do end up in this area, be sure to eat at Chive. It was one of the best dinners I've had in a long time.

Have you contacted the Visitors Bureau? I'm sure they have nice packets made up precisely for people like you. There are so many hotels in the Gaslamp Quarter and nearby, I'd be at a loss to start listing them. The Convention Center is just south of the Gaslamp Quarter, beautifully sited on the water. Adjacent to it are the Hyatt and Marriott, with spectacular views over the harbor.

Because of the Convention Center, there are hotels of almost every brand within walking distance. You also have Petco Park, our new baseball diamond, a few blocks to the east, now pulling hotel development to that side of the Gaslamp Quarter.

I am planning a bachelor party for my friend in December or January. San Diego is one of our top choices for a desination, but I'm having trouble figuring out where we should stay.

We don't need anything super-deluxe, but the bachelor is a bit of a hotel afficionado and I wouldn't want to disappoint by booking the HI Express. We're not heavy drinkers and we're not going to be hosting strippers in our rooms. We just want somewhere with decent rooms, a friendly and knowledgeable concierge and (hopefully) a suite we can use to eat take-out food together and drink a bottle of wine or two.

Our foremost concern is location. We'd ideally like to be walking distance from a variety of restaurants (from top-notch to dirty cheap--not chains) and bars (we prefer cheap bars where it's possible to enjoy a beer and carry on a conversation).

The downtown/gaslamp areas seem to be most promising (the Marriott, Hilton, Omni, W, Westin, etc. all look like they'd fit the bill), but we're running into problems with hotel availability on the weekends we're considering because of conventions (darn cell biologists and Mary Kay ladies!). Are there any good hotels that are walkable from good restaurants and bars that AREN'T likely to be booked up on big convention weekends?

What if we're willing to take taxis to get places? Are taxis expensive in SAN? Are they easy to find or do we need to order them well in advance? It looks like there are a lot of hotels in the Mission Valley area. Is there anything interesting there or is just generic suburban office-parkland with chain restaurants? How far is it from the more interesting parts of town?

Are day-trips to Tijuana easily accomplished from any part of San Diego, or is there a particular area that's more convenient?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

San Diego is very spread out. Gaslamp is the hotspot of San Diego. If you can make it work down there, the experience will be great. Gaslamp is packed (In a fun way) on the weekends, the weather is good, and the number and quality of restaurants is superb.

I don't know the specific rates, but taxis in San Diego are not usually the best way to go. If you're just gong downtown and staying there, then fine. Depending on the size of your party, renting a car would be more flexible.

Another option is to go up the coast a little bit. There's some nice hotels in Del Mar, Leucadia and Carlsbad. If you're looking for golf, there's many options there, too.

Access to Tijuana is best done by the Trolley. Easy in, easy out. IMO, it's the best use of the trolley next to getting into sold-out Qualcomm. Downtown is the main hub for all trolley lines. When in TJ, avoid the donkey shows. ;)

Looking at the Priceline map for SAN, I would recommend the following locations:

1. Downtown San Diego & Harbor Island
2. San Diego Coastal
3. Del Mar
4. North County Coastal

Good luck.

Im a former NYC-er now living in downtown SD. I can say that the Hyatt downtown is beautiful and a 5-10 minute walk to the gaslamp. There is also a smaller boutique hotel--still nice, called the gaslamp hotel(inn?) and the bristol hotel and a nice embassy suites right down here as well that seems pretty darn nice. Coming from NYC you will find chains you thought would be crummy (embassy suites etc) to be actually quite large, clean and new (a trend here vs NYC)...

hope that helps. have fun--you will have fun downtown just make sure if you go out to get into a bar before 10 before the cover charges start to kick in pretty heavy (and the lines)....

We have a trip coming up in Feb. to San Diego and we are looking for recommendations on hotels and dining for a family of 4, with the kids ages 2 and 4.

While we would prefer an IC Family or a Starwood hotel but we won't limit it to those should there be something better. As well I think it would be better for us to stay in the Mission Bay/Hotel Circle areas for ease of access to highways and attractions. The one item the hotel will require is a pool!. I know that many San Diego natives may not swim in Feb but for us Canucks it is warm enough to plunge!. Price range would be between $125-$200 per night.

For dining, any suggestions on some good restaurants that are kid friendly yet not your typical Applebees, McDonalds etc. are greatly appreciated.

And if you have any suggestions for places to visit other then the Zoo, Seaworld, Legoland (these are planned so far) please bring them forth!

I thank you all in advance!

Hi superdawg,

San Diego will be a great, warm destination that time of year.

Two ideas come quickly to mind:

1) Corvette Diner (http://www.cohnrestaurants.com/cohn/cohnrestaurants/corvette.php) is in the Hillcrest area and has a 50s diner feel. Loud, fun servers with retro hair, they throw straws by the handful at the table when needed, Bazooka bubble gum at the end of your meal, that kind of thing. Would definitely make for a fun place to dine.

2) My two year old loves the HUGE playground at Mission Bay (http://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/parks/missionbay/facilities.shtml). On this map, the park is on Mission Bay Drive, just about west of where the Interstate 5 symbol is on this map. In real life it is south of the Hilton resort there on the water.

The Hilton would normally make a good choice, particularly for nice walks around the bay (with or without strollers), except that when I went to their website, on the front page in big letters it says that their pool is closed in early 2008. :(

Thanks for the tips. I can't wait for the trip!

Superdawg: I was thinking about this thread today...are you still coming to San Diego this month with your family? Where are you staying and what are you planning on doing? Let us know if you want to "road-test" any of your ideas!

Drive up to Torrey Pines and watch the hang gliders. Our kids were blown away:D.

How about a coffee break?

Java Mama Cafe (http://www.javamama.com/)

The kids might like the Wild Animal Park too.

My wife wants to plan a trip to San Diego to visit Seaworld, etc. She would also like to find a hotel with beach access within walking distance. Do such hotels exist? I would prefer one in the HI chain or even Comfort Inn. The trip is several months out, so if it is in another chain, I can start earning points there & try to get a few free nights.

My wife wants to plan a trip to San Diego to visit Seaworld, etc. She would also like to find a hotel with beach access within walking distance. Do such hotels exist? I would prefer one in the HI chain or even Comfort Inn. The trip is several months out, so if it is in another chain, I can start earning points there & try to get a few free nights.

There are several hotels on the beach, and several others on the bay. Near SeaWorld, the hotels on the beach are in Mission Beach or Pacific Beach. There may be some in Ocean Beach within close proximity to the beach, too (but none come to mind). With a family, I personally would opt for a hotel on the bay, far away from the beer-drinking, horse-shoe slinging MB and PB beach crowds (even in February--you'd be surprised how many 20-somethings are on the beach every day, all year long).

For dinner one night, try Little Italy. It's lovely. Overall, much of the revitalized downtown SD is wonderful. http://www.littleitalysd.com/splash/index.asp

Seaport Village is also good for families. Buster's Beach House is family friendly.
http://www.bustersbeachhouse.com/html/bbhsdframeset.html

We're back from our trip and we ended up staying at the newly renovated Hyatt Regency Mission Bay. It is a great hotel! Not far from Sea World or Mission Beach yet quiet and has a resort like feel with great breakfasts if you take the AAA Breakfast promo rate. There are some beaches on the bay that are walking distance from this hotel.

michellemck99 At the time you posted on the third we were just arriving in SAN after diverting to LAS due to SAN closing for bit due to the visibility. Once again thanks for the info, my kids loved the Corvette diner!

We will be in San Diego in September just for 1 night. Need help in selecting a hotel. We are looking at 2 areas, the downtown area or Coronado area. Am considering but not set on these so far: W, Westin Gas Lamp and San Diego both, WestGate or US Grant. In Coronado either the Marriott or Del Coronado. Any input would be great~ Thanks

I was in SD in February and stayed at the US Grant. I highly recommend it. It is absolutely lovely and just went through a major renovation. It is also very convenient to restaurants, etc.

Very timely post, as we were also planning a long weekend in SD in August.

Can anyone comment on the viability of the W versus the two Westins? Thanks.

You'll find a lot of information in the Starwood forum about the W and Westins.

San Diego Area
San Diego Area General Discussion Thread (Where to stay? Which hotel is better? etc.) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=625292)
Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, Harbor Island (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=330596)
Sheraton Suites San Diego at Symphony Hall (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=550498)
The US Grant (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=312661)
W Hotel - San Diego (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=443928&highlight=diego)
Westin San Diego (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=722221)
Westin Horton Plaza - San Diego (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=170132)

The advantage to downtown/Gaslamp over Coronado is very easy access to a large selection of restaurants and nightlife options (and even baseball if the Padres are in town). Plus, the journey to and from the airport (or the cruise port, if apploicable) is much shorter than if you stay in Coronado.

On weekends, the lobby of the W is mobbed with the local 20-30ish crowd. It is also about a 6 block walk to the Gaslamp or Horton Plaza through some questionable neighborhoods - not something you want to do at night.

I really like the Coronado but I don't think it's a good choice if you're staying just one night. As people have said - too inconvenient.

I would choose Gaslamp over Coronado. I haven't stayed at the US Grant, but I hear it's pretty nice. I've stayed at the Westgate several times and been there for various art events. It's a dated hotel, very European with impeccable service and food.

The newer places to stay are the:
The Ivy (don't eat anywhere in here, horrible food and service)
The Hardrock (just had sushi there a few weeks ago, not worth the money IMO)
The W
These will be pretty lively at night

The US Grant and the Westgate will be more low key.

We chose the Westin SD based on a few things: a) rate was nearly $100 cheaper per night over Westin-Gaslamp and W b) larger pool and poolside area c) Proximity to trolley to get around a little in SD and maybe down to Mex d) Complimentary airport shuttle e) Possibility for (preferred room) upgrade as a SPG-Gold

Let ya know how it goes in Aug.

Definatley Gaslamp!
Coronado is beautiful but not worth the trip if you only have one night. Gaslamp is 5 minutes from the airport. Tons of restaurants, shopping and you are right on the bay.
I stayed at the Hilton Gaslamp in Feb. It is across the street from the Convention Center. As Hilton Gold we got an upgrade to a room with a balcony. Location was very central but so are alot of properties. San Diego has done a wonderful job with it's downtown.

Also for future Gaslamp consideration: The Solamar. Nice Kimpton property a couple of blocks from Petco and the Convention Center. Nice rooms (stylish but confortable), free HSIA (wired and wireless), what looked to be a good fitness facility, L'Occitane bath amenities and (my favorite factor) a thick, size XL bathrobe (more like XXL) that actually fit a lager person :) (there was a second robe in a standard size).

There's supposed to be a nightlife 'scene' at the rooftop terrace bar, but my stay ws too short to check it out.

Definitely Gaslamp! First visit to the wonderful city of San Diego last year - stayed at the Westin Gaslamp (bid via Priceline) - perfect location and excellent hotel!

I was in SD in February and stayed at the US Grant. I highly recommend it. It is absolutely lovely and just went through a major renovation. It is also very convenient to restaurants, etc.

I concur. Great hotel and great food in Grant Grill.

We are giving a lecture at the Scottish Rite Event Center in the Mission Valley area. We have never been to San Diego before and plan on coming in a few days early to explore.

I understand the Sheraton Mission Valley( very close to the venue) is nice but overlooks a freeway surrounded by strip mall.

My guess is we will have a car.

Any suggestions for areas/hotels to look at for a 4 night stay.

Thanks.

Most of the Mission Valley hotels are next to the I-8 freeway, that's part of the attraction is that they are easy to get to and from. The Marriott and Doubletree and close and quieter, Hilton is also close by. Very easy to get around Mission Valley by car and a few mins to the beach and 10 mins or less to downtown.

We are giving a lecture at the Scottish Rite Event Center in the Mission Valley area. We have never been to San Diego before and plan on coming in a few days early to explore.

I understand the Sheraton Mission Valley( very close to the venue) is nice but overlooks a freeway surrounded by strip mall.

My guess is we will have a car.

Any suggestions for areas/hotels to look at for a 4 night stay.

Thanks.

If you will have a car then I'd book a hotel in the Gaslamp district. Mission Valley is about 10-15min driving time from Gaslamp. At night there isn't anything to do in Mission Valley-unless you like to line dance :D Gaslamp you'll have a plethora of dining choices and much more life than Mission Valley.

Or if its much cheaper stay in Mission valley and take cabs to downtown or the beaches..should be more than $15 cab ride RT....

Portions of the post that previously appeared in this space have been deleted. I would provide you with a reason why, but doing so would likely be against the TOS.

I had a great stay at the Gaslamp Marriott. One highlight was the rooftop bar/club.

To the guy who was planning a bachelor party weekend, I think the Hard Rock Hotel might fit the bill...

I had a great stay at the Gaslamp Marriott. One highlight was the rooftop bar/club.

That bar is awesome! If the Padres are playing the night you're there it's a great view and terrific fun. It's pretty amazing how well you can follow the ball from there.